Every year a number of SSI payments are lost or stolen. To minimize this problem the Federal government prefers that people to switch to the direct deposit system. The government issues a Direct Express card that can be used to receive the social security payment. The card operates like a debit card and is linked to the bank ATM network. Since its introduction, there has been a significant decline in social security check theft. The more people use direct deposit and Direct Express card the more likely the number of stolen payments will decline. Just like any other credit card, it must be guarded closely. But there is protection offered if it is lost or stolen. The card can be used to collect benefits and make payments. It should be used in major retail stores (wherever master card is accepted) to avoid being charged a service fee.